Art Gene

Following the establishment of their studios in the then derelict former School for the Advancement of Science, Arts and Technology in 1998, Maddi and Stuart (alongside  Julie Hammerton, Co-Founder Director ) began working with Cumbria County Council to repurpose the building for arts use. This process led to the building’s rescue and refurbishment and the formation of Art Gene in 2002.  Art Gene quickly established an international programme of residencies and exhibitions, adapting to and learning from collaborative working with a number of highly skilled associates including artists and, more recently, architects and other specialists from all over the world. These associates contribute to our research through studio-based residencies, fellowships, charrettes, seminars and exhibitions in the Art Gene Gallery, and partner with us to develop and realise a wide portfolio of projects.  Art Gene places a strong emphasis on research, undertaking a range of pure research activities which inform and are applied to the development and realisation of projects. We work with the local community, alongside multidisciplinary teams of architects, artists and other specialists to realise our aim of Re-Visioning the regeneration of the social, natural and built environment.  We are currently engaged in the development and delivery of many projects with integrated educational initiatives delivered locally, regionally and internationally.